The estate of the Phare des Baleines ('Lighthouse of the Whales') offers different tours :
At the beginning of the 19th century, maritime traffic increased and the first Phare des Baleines Lighthouse was no longer efficient enough to ensure the safety of the approaches to Point des Baleines. It was then decided to build two lighthouses, one on land near the Old Tower, and the other at sea on the rocky plateau of Pointe des Baleines (The Lighthouse called "des Baleineaux").
Its construction began under the impetus of the large coastal beaconing programme, established by the Lighthouses and Beacons Department. A national programme designed to allow all sailors to see a lighthouse, wherever they are on the French coast. The Phare des Baleines Lighthouse is still in operation, and its ascent offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the île de Ré.
60 metres high and 257 steps to discover its history and breathtaking panorama. Access to the Lighthouse visit is subject to a fee.
The Whale Tower was built in 1666. By the middle of the nineteenth century, technological advances, particularly those of Augustin Fresnel, who developed his famous lens, could allow this former lighthouse to increase its efficiency. However, it needed to be upgraded in order to benefit from it because its scope would be insufficient given its low height. It was thus decided to build the great lighthouse of the Whales.
It is possible to privately hire the Old Tower and its terrace for all your events.
Created in 1861 on the estate acquired by the State to install the new lighthouse near the old tower, it occupies an area of about 2 hectares. You can find many species of trees through its paths where the sound of the ocean mixes with that of the birds. The garden encompasses all the buildings on the estate and is mainly watered by cisterns collecting rainwater from the buildings.
Part of this garden is may be hired privately and hosts public and private events throughout the year.
Access to the garden is free, please respect this fragile natural area.
Located in a building that served as a training school for future lighthouse keepers between 1949 and 1970. In 2005, renovation work was undertaken to adapt this space and transform it into a museum.
Suitable for young and old, and accessible to people with disabilities, the museum tells the story of lighthouses and how they work. You will also find many objects from across the ages to plunge back into the heart of maritime history.
You will find many objects inspired by the maritime world in the Lighthouse shop: there is something for all tastes and all ages. The maritime bookshop offers a large number of specialised books and is a reference in the field: enthusiasts, be warned!
It is possible to hire rooms in the heart of the Grand Phare building but also the terrace of the Old Tower (30 people). A unique place to gather your teams, family or friends.
Part of the garden may also be hired privately, the theatre of greenery can accommodate up to 100 people under Tivoli and 150 people for the serving of cocktails.
Please contact us for further information.